SNY’s Ian Begley will be responding to Knicks questions from readers. Here’s the latest…
Julius Randle is on my mind Ian. Do the Knicks still see him as a core piece to their championship aspirations? Does the deal get done? ❤️ The Putback – @RobertWCross
Do the Knicks see Randle fitting in this year’s Knicks team? Or are they shopping him to see his value? – @sevMTV
What is the likelihood that the Knicks & Julius Randle agree to an extension once he is eligible on August 3rd? – @Knixoptimist
This is my read on Julius Randle at the moment: He is excited about this Knicks team and believes they can make a run. He’s looking forward to being back, healthy, with this group. He thinks things can be special with Mikal Bridges. Also, his rehab from shoulder surgery is going incredibly well at the moment.
I can’t tell you exactly what the Knicks think right now because:
1) Things change quickly in the NBA, especially at this time of year.
2) As is the case in most organizations, different people have different opinions on topics related to the team.
On Randle, some in the organization believe that Randle can fit well with this group and think that Randle’s play in January – after the OG Anunoby trade – supports that point.
Others are concerned about Randle going into this pivotal season with free agency looming and the challenges that may present. In addition, some decision-makers aren’t as bullish about the general fit of the current group.
Randle is eligible for an extension starting Aug. 3. It can be as long as four years and for as much as $181.5 million. Extension talks aren’t at the forefront for either the Knicks or Randle.
Regarding a potential trade of Randle, if the Knicks do it in the offseason and it doesn’t work out, they will be second-guessed over the decision. Fans and media will wonder what the team would have looked like with Randle on the roster.
Remember, the Knicks played well in January when Anunoby was on the roster and Randle was healthy. Based on that, it seems prudent to start the season with this group intact and assess the results before you consider making a major trade like moving Randle.
What role will Pacome Dadiet play in the rotation? Does the franchise plan to have him play in the G-League? – @NY_Knicks_Fr
I don’t know the Knicks’ plans for Dadiet but there is no room for him in the regular rotation. So it’s logical to assume that he spends significant time with the Knicks’ G League team in Westchester. It will give him a chance to learn and develop at a slower pace.
Can we afford to sign Precious for 8M and stay under the second apron? – @BrooklynSaints
Yes, I believe there is enough room to do this without hitting the second apron. The Knicks have Precious Achiuwa’s Bird Rights, so they can make him this kind of offer.
Has Duop Reath been brought up as a possible backup Center for the Knicks? – @eamontalvo15
I haven’t heard Duop’s name. That doesn’t mean New York hasn’t discussed him. But I’d assume that the Knicks are looking for a veteran center to back up Mitchell Robinson as they enter this pivotal season.
SNY
